I watched the funeral and committal for Queen Elizabeth last month. It completed a cycle for me, because I watched much of her coronation on black and white TV when I was four. I found them to be very beautiful services, especially the choir anthems.

It struck me, though, that despite all the ceremony of an elaborate procession and all the splendor of Westminster Abbey and St. George’s Chapel, the basic services were the same as you’d find in most Anglican or Episcopal churches or, for that matter, most Lutheran churches. There were hymns, versicles, prayers, scripture readings, a psalm, and blessings. I even noted that the first hymn, “The Day Thou Gave Us Lord, is Ended” is one that I have requested be sung at my funeral. The Queen’s service was essentially the same service that might be held for any of us.

It is said that death is the great equalizer. We all die, rich or poor. But for me as a Christian, the great equalizer is baptism. Baptized into Christ all the distinctions among us disappear. I’ll leave you with the quote from Queen Elizabeth:

“For me, the life of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, whose birth we celebrate today, is an inspiration and an anchor in my life. A role model of reconciliation and forgiveness, he stretched out his hands in love, acceptance and healing. Christ’s example has taught me to seek to respect and value all people of whatever faith or none.”*

May we learn from her and all seek to follow Christ’s example.

Read Galatians 3:28 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne

*From the Queen’s Christmas Message, 2014.